A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Portland, Maine and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Portland, Maine. Although Portland, Maine and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Portland, Maine has more sights and attractions for tourists. Portland, Maine is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is known for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks. It is also well known for The Portland Head Light.

How is Portland, Maine different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood National Park and Portland, Maine. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Redwood National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Portland, Maine area. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Portland, Maine has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Portland, Maine is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.


Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Portland, Maine to go shopping. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.


Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Redwood National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Redwood National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.


Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Neither Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Portland, Maine
Redwood National Park

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Portland, Maine is generally not very walkable. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable coastal town. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

In either Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Portland, Maine because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, Maine, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

Families should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Portland, Maine. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Redwood National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Portland, Maine if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Redwood National Park.


  • How many days in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portland, Maine 2-3 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

In Portland, Maine, you'll find food and shopping. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The impressive destination of Redwood National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. It offers something for everyone.

The park of Redwood National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

Portland, Maine is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This park offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Portland, Maine. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park or Portland, Maine?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Portland, Maine Prices
    USA Prices
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Portland, Maine $227
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Portland, Maine is $227, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Portland, Maine and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portland, Maine $115
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portland, Maine $230
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Portland, Maine and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Portland, Maine


Hotels in Redwood National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Portland, Maine Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portland, Maine $34
    Redwood National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland, Maine

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portland, Maine:

  • Private Transfer from Portland Cruise Port to Portland city: $75
  • Private Transfer from Portland Port to Portland Jetport (PWM): $136
  • Private Transfer from Portland city to Portland Cruise Port: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Portland, Maine change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Portland, Maine $84
    Redwood National Park $56
Typical Food Prices in Portland, Maine

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Portland, Maine:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $17
  • Dinner for 2
    $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland, Maine

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portland, Maine.

  • Portland: Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portland, Maine $39
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Portland, Maine

Here are a few actual costs in Portland, Maine for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine: $7.75
  • Historical Walking Tour of Portland’s Old Port District: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Portland by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Portland Maine Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • Ultimate Portland Self-Guided Driving GPS Audio Tour: $15
  • Portland Maine Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour Bundle: $20
  • 2-Hour Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour: $29
  • Port City Lights Cruise: $39
  • Portland: Sightseeing Cruise to Portland Head Light: $41
  • Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine: $42
  • Tour in Vintage Fire Engine: $43
  • Portland: Land and Sea Tour Duck Tour with a Guide: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portland, Maine $24
    Redwood National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland, Maine

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portland, Maine:

  • Portland Old Port Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $99
  • Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Portland, Maine and Redwood National Park, we can see that Portland, Maine is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Portland, Maine would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portland, Maine than you might in Redwood National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Portland, Maine Expensive? and Is Redwood National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Portland, Maine is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. Portland, Maine usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during summer. Portland, Maine gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Portland, Maine 69°F (20°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Portland, Maine during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

In the autumn, Portland, Maine is cooler than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland, Maine in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Portland, Maine often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Portland, Maine gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in October than Redwood National Park. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Portland, Maine 49°F (9°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and Redwood National Park. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland, Maine in the winter. In January, Portland, Maine is generally much colder than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 21°F (-6°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Portland, Maine usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during winter. Portland, Maine gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Portland, Maine usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Portland, Maine 21°F (-6°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as Redwood National Park. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Portland, Maine is much colder than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In the spring, Portland, Maine often gets less sunshine than Redwood National Park. Portland, Maine gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in April than Redwood National Park. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Portland, Maine 43°F (6°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)